October 2009 in the Record Book for Illinois - and Portlight Honor Walk- Midwest

Thought I'd add a bit more to my 'blogging' than the 'What I've Learned' edition, but that was fun!!! I found the chart below on the NOAA site, and think we may break this record tonight and tomorrow for rainfall. One saving grace up here in Northern, IL has been that it has come in smaller amounts, regularly, and not a 6" event like other parts of the state and country. Leaves are hampering storm drains in the burbs, along with the already saturated ground, swollen creeks and waterways. There are watches and warnings for Lake, McHenry and Cook counties, and in many other parts of the state.

My thoughts go out to all those struggling with the rains, fires, or blizzards and the recent tornados.

As you know, I am trying to get a group together for the Honor Walk for Portlight As we all know natural disasters can affect us...no matter where we are. The registration is easy, and can be found on the Portlight blog here on WU. If you would like to walk with us here close to Chicago, GREAT, if not and want to walk where you are, GREAT...Either way, hoping you'll support Portlight and the Honor Walk. Drop me a line (a few have already) if you would like to get together and walk Dec. 5.

If you have any more sophisticated weather updates to add to my blog in the coming days, please do. Or if there is a link you think I would be interested in, please let me know. My thanks to everyone for helping me learn more more everyday. And for the fun and sharing.

Near Record Wet October in IllinoisUpdated: October 30, 2009Cold, Wet OctoberThe state-wide precipitation for the first 30 days of October was 8.35 inches. This is 5.6 inches above normal. Based on preliminary data, this is already the second wettest October on record. The wettest October was 1941 with 9.23 inches. The heaviest rains fell in the southern half of the state with totals ranging from 6 to 12 inches.

Statewide temperatures for October 1-30 have been 5.0 degrees below normal, making this the seventh coldest October (based on records going back to 1895).

Below are maps of the precipitation as well as tables with the October rainfall rankings and reports of individual stations.